How To Triple Your Output with Deep Work

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There is a way to get 2-3 times more work done with the same effort.

It’s a method called “Deep Work”.

And it’s something you can use right after this quick read.

Let’s get into it.

Explore further

Here are some more resources on this topic:

• “Deep Work” by Cal Newport- https://a.co/d/5ZoOux4

• Huberman Lab- Dr. Cal Newport on How to Enhance Focus and Improve Productivity- https://youtu.be/p4ZfkezDTXQ?si=-IQaJQVyyMDhyBSU

1. Understanding Deep Work

Let's go over what deep work is and why it works before we jump into how to do it.

Cal Newport (author of "Deep Work") introduced this term that we now use often.

It's defined as working with no distractions, pushing your brain to its limits.

What's The Point?

Using this concept as an entrepreneur is super useful. It allows for higher-quality work, squeezing more out of less time.

And think, getting 5% more done a day will lead to 35% more done by the end of the week.

This can be your edge over other businesses.

The Science Stuff

Deep work helps the brain reorganize itself.

This happens through neuroplasticity. It's the formation of new neural connections.

It also activates your prefrontal cortex, the region that plans and makes decisions.

The byproducts of using this method are great for smarter thinking.

Now that you know why it works, let's get ready to try it.

2. Setting Up for Deep Work

Getting prepared before your session can boost the impact even more.

The first thing is to optimize your work setup.

Organize the clutter and put away the stuff that isn't relevant. An organized workspace promotes an organized mind.

Try to pick a space that's quiet and cool.

If you can't avoid noise, or want noise-free thinking, try earplugs. Or try headphones with noise cancellation.

Alex Hormozi (multi-millionaire entrepreneur) prefers earplugs or earmuffs.

Investing in good furniture also helps. Being comfortable prevents other distractions.

Another reason to buy that new chair, lol.

Tools to Stop Distractions

Getting that text about dinner plans next month isn't important. It can wait.

If you have an Apple device, use its focus tools. Set up a do-not-disturb setting that only allows certain notifications.

Apps like Freedom or Cold Turkey can block distracting websites and apps.

You get more done without TikTok, trust me.

3. Planning and Scheduling Deep Work

Deciding when you're going to deep work beforehand helps.

Using time blocking to plan your day makes it a whole lot easier. It helps protect your deep work time from other tasks.

Bill Gates and Elon Musk use this to focus on their most important tasks.

What To Do First?

You can use the Eisenhower Matrix to figure out what you should work on now and later.

Also, try scheduling your deep work sessions for when you're most productive. If you feel most focused and are able to work at night, do that. (I definitely do!)

 4. Techniques for maintaining focus

Now that we are ready to jump into a session, let's talk about what to do during work time.

The Pomodoro Technique is a great strategy to stay focused.

It goes like this:

• Work for 25 minutes

• Take a break for 5 minutes

• Repeat 3-5 times, followed by a 10-15 minute break

This prevents burnout and maintain laser focus.

Segmenting Your Work

Something else that has worked for me is breaking down tasks.

Laying out all the parts makes it easier for me to churn through them, one by one. It helps my flow and is also a little motivating to tick them all off.

Mindfulness

Meditation for 3-5 minutes can also boost your focus. Set a timer and close your eyes, focusing on deep breathing.

You don't have to become a monk; a quick session is all it takes.

5. Overcoming challenges to deep work

You might get hit with some interruptions during a session. It happens.

The best way to avoid this is by letting people know beforehand. Even better if you have a schedule.

Makes everyone reconsider how urgent the thing is.

Another thing is checking emails in batches at set times. Rather than reading every email as they come through, open them all every so often.

Building a Habit

Starting small and often will help you get into a rhythm. Five minutes a day can turn into hours next month.

Keep scheduling sessions and showing up, no matter how long they are.

6. Measuring and Improving Sessions

Optimizing your deep work will allow for even faster work, and more growth.

Write down what you got done after a session. This allows you to pick up where you left off and track what works for you.

I have a digital journal going that I use to improve my sessions.

Keep an Open Mind

To find what's best for you, experiment a little. Try different work hours and schedules.

Everyone pushed me to get stuff done early, but I found I excel around 6-9pm.

Everyone is different, find what's best for you.

Thanks for reading!

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Next week I’m going over everything you need to know about mastering them to win in business.

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